Ashlyn Tomlin, daughter of worship artist Chris Tomlin, is stepping into the spotlight with her feature film debut as Melanie in The One, a Christmas drama opening in theaters nationwide on November 5, 2026. Directed by Lisa Arnold and featuring Martin Sheen, Jana Kramer, Olivia Sanabia, and Nick Zano, the film follows young people confronting grief, homelessness, and life after foster care. Its partnership with For Others, the nonprofit founded by Chris and Lauren Tomlin, brings the story close to home for Ashlyn. In this interview, she shares how she landed her first movie role, what audiences never see behind the scenes, and how her parents' example and her own faith are shaping her understanding of compassion.
Q: The One marks your feature film debut. How did the opportunity come about, and what made you want to take on this role?
A: The opportunity to audition for The One came when I was starting to audition for movies in seventh grade. I auditioned and got the role; I was so surprised! I wanted to take on the role of Melanie, because she was very bright, bubbly, and young. I thought it would be fun and natural to take on her character.
Q: What did you learn about acting while working alongside such an experienced cast?
A: One of the greatest things I learned from acting is that you can be professional, work hard, and still have fun on set. I also learned that not every actor gets it right on their first try; it sometimes requires several takes to get the right shot. As a viewer, you never realize all that goes into making a movie behind the scenes.
Q: The film follows young people facing grief, homelessness, and life after foster care. What part of their story stayed with you after filming?
A: What stayed with me after filming is that there are tens of thousands of teens in our country who age out of foster care every year and don't have a place to call home. That reality is devastating for so many, and I hope this film encourages people to take action and help those children find the love that they deserve.
Q: What was it like growing up with Chris Tomlin as your father, and what have you learned from watching him connect with people through music?
A: It really is special because I get to see my dad help people around the world through his music, and then he comes home as my dad and helps me. He encourages others, and he encourages me. I've learned from him to see the world through other people's perspectives, not just through my own situation. For example, he's helped me understand what it must feel like to not have a safe place to call home. It really makes you feel grateful for what you have.
Q: Your parents founded For Others, which is partnering with the film. How has their work shaped the way you think about children and families who need support?
A: They have taught me that life can be incredibly difficult for so many people, and there are people in our communities who are struggling every day simply to survive. Their work has shown me the importance of having a heart of empathy. We all have a part to play in making a difference in this world and sometimes it's as simple as seeing someone, caring about their story, and choosing to help.
Q: Your family's faith is visible to many people, but faith is also personal. What does your own faith mean to you, and how has it shaped the choices you're making now?
A: My faith has caused me to look to Him when I have difficulties, instead of trying to handle them on my own. He brings me peace and a joy that the world could never give me!
For more information about The One and to watch the trailer, visit watchtheone.com.
